Spaceplane - HITL Engineer

Our Mission: Fly to space twice in a day

Join our Software team working on the Mk-II Spaceplane and help shape the future of flight.
As a HITL Engineer, you will play a key role in designing, developing, and maintaining simulation platforms to test the software and avionics systems which run on our Spaceplane. You’ll work closely with a multidisciplinary team of engineers, shaping the systems that make routine spaceflight a reality.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement automated testing for Hardware-in-the-Loop (HITL) software

Develop test automation and CI/CD infrastructure

Design and implement solutions to automate testing of vehicle subsystems using flight software and simulations

Develop and review test plans, procedures, and documentation

Work in close coordination with systems engineering, avionics, and other engineering teams

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, or a related discipline

3+ years of professional software or electronics development experience

3+ years of experience in C++ or a similar programming language

Nice to Have

Experience with Linux development

Knowledge of TCP/IP networking

Experience with flight software and control system development for UAVs, rockets, or spacecraft

Experience with embedded systems

About Us – Dawn Aerospace

Dawn Aerospace is developing the fastest and highest-flying aircraft ever to take off from a runway, combining the extreme performance of rocket propulsion with the reusability of conventional airplanes to enable high-frequency, low-cost access to sub-orbital space. Our flagship aircraft, the Mk-II Aurora spaceplane, is designed to push the boundaries of aviation into space, providing a scalable and cost-effective platform for microgravity research, atmospheric studies, and aerospace innovation. In 2024, the Aurora spaceplane broke the sound barrier, reaching Mach 1.12 at 82,500 feet, and set a record for the fastest climb to 20 kilometres (65,600 feet).

We're a tight-knit, cross-functional team with a passion for building things that matter. If you're ready to be part of a bold, hands-on engineering challenge that’s changing how space is accessed—let’s talk. And even if you think you have what it takes but are unsure that you check every box, we still want to hear from you.

Please also note this role involves access to controlled/secure technology. Appointment is conditional on passing background/security vetting and, where required, obtaining any necessary export-control authorisations. Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis with reference to clearance and licensing requirements.